April 21, 1936 – Jan. 26, 2019

Robert “John” Reber was born to Robert Mervin and Mary Wadsworth Reber in St. George, Utah, on April 21, 1936, in the McGregor Hospital. He passed on Jan. 26, 2019, from a heart that became just too tired to give him another beat. He was married for many years to Jonette Seare Reber whom he dearly loved.

John lived his entire life in St George, the city he adored and watched grow and helped develop from a very small town to the current thriving community it is today. He joined his father at Reber Investment, Insurance and Finance when he was 19 and continued the legacy for the next 60 years.

After the office was closed a year ago, he still enjoyed his daily drive through City Center, checking on the bowlers, getting his meds at Stapley Pharmacy and taking his little sack of trash to the dumpster. Even on the weekends, he still needed to make his run to check the mail and occasionally delight in a bowling alley burger.

Dixie Theater, Gaiety Theater and the Starlight Drive-in were also a huge part of his early life. He was proud to call himself a St. George Lion, an Elks Lodge member and a volunteer fireman for many years. He had also been an officer in the Utah National Guard.

His greatest love in his life was his family. When the kids were young, they enjoyed ski trips, riding horses at the 700 South corral, and lake trips in the flashy Baker jet boats that he helped to design and build. How proud he was to go speeding down Lake Mead and Lake Powell. There were many weekends spent at his parent’s cabin in Pine Valley. It was a Reber tradition to share the garden harvest grown there.

He was an avid supporter of his grandchildren’s sports. He loved a weekend when Degan had a motocross race or Bear had a barrel race. He also looked forward to driving to Pine Valley to visit David at his home talking about the “good old days,” and leisure time spent on Teri’s porch with her family catching up on the news of the week.

He was known for his warm, engaging personality and vibrant smile. He was always spreading love with his “Howdy’s!” or “Hello young lady or young man!” He generated so much love, light and true joy through his daily path, leaving people feeling like a thousand bucks.

He is survived by his wife Jonette; three children: Teri Vernlund, David Reber, and Michon (Judd) Palmer; four grandchildren: Tyler Vernlund and Shane (Mischa) Vernlund, and Dakotah (Sam) Salisbury and Degan Palmer; two great-grandchildren: Kayden and Hazel; and sister MaryAnn Horlacher. He was preceded in death by his parents Merv and Mary; daughter Robin; son Curtis; sister Lovina; and brother-in-law Chuck.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 1, at the Spilsbury Mortuary with the viewing from 9-11:30 a.m. and services following at noon.
• Interment will take place at the St. George City Cemetery with full military honors.

We would like to acknowledge Dr. Brad Thompson and John’s other physicians and caregivers who all treated him with tender loving care.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be given to the Wounded Warrior Foundation or Intermountain Healthcare Foundation.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Aug. 23, 1971 – Jan. 27, 2019

Phillip Leon Orme passed away from a long-term illness in his home on Jan. 27, 2019, in St. George, Utah, at 47 years old.

Phil was born Aug. 23, 1971, in Las Vegas to loving parents Patricia Memmott Orme and LaMar Hal Orme. Phil graduated from Chaparral High School in 1989. He married Roxanne Leathers in July 1993 and raised their three children Anthony Leathers, Katelyn Orme and Emily Orme. His jobs included Metro Pizza, Bike World, Bank of America, Sears Automotive and at Las Vegas Valley Water District for 28 years.

Phil was preceded by the deaths of his mother-in-law Phyllis Leathers and father-in-law Wayne Leathers and now joins his mother Patricia Orme and his brother Timothy Orme in their heavenly home.

Phil is survived by his wife Roxanne, his son Anthony Leathers and daughters Katelyn and Emily Orme, all of St. George, Utah, and his son Justin Briton of Salt Lake City, Utah. He will be always loved and greatly missed by his sisters Tonya (Tim) Laymon, Pam (Russ) Cassedy, father Hal and his many nieces and nephews who loved and adored their uncle Phil. He loved all of them dearly as evident by his nicknames for them and their loving banter.

Phil was an avid fan of the Raiders and Cubs. In his youth he was a bicycle BMX racer. He enjoyed monster trucks, NHRA drag racing, NASCAR and especially being with his family. We will always remember his great disposition even while ill. He had the ability to make people laugh, shared his great smile always, his work ethic and for being a great provider to his family.

Phil has a street named for him connecting the medical district to Martin Luther King Boulevard: Phillip Orme Way. This honored his work with the LVVWD as a plans examiner for the five-year Project Neon. Phil had been leading this project while still managing his illness and other responsibilities. Stated in the ePipeline Publication of the LVVWD, SNWA and Springs Preserve. “… the design, build project … required turn-around time for plan reviews in a fraction of time for a typical project….” “Phil put in long days and extra days to keep project Neon ahead of an aggressive schedule.”

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 2, at 2 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George.
• A visitation will be Saturday prior to services from 12:00-1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment to follow at the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

June 11, 1940 – Jan. 26, 2019

Elaine J. Spilsbury, age 78, peacefully returned to her Father in heaven on Jan. 26, 2019, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She was born June 11, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, to Bernice and Theodore Retman. She was adopted by Norman Pleger.

Elaine married Marlowe Young Spilsbury on Aug. 3, 1957, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their marriage was later solemnized in the St. George LDS Temple. He preceded her in death on Nov. 26, 2003. They were married 46 years.

Elaine’s family moved to Las Vegas when she was 14. She graduated from Las Vegas High School, class of 1958. Elaine spent her life as a homemaker and caring for others.

Elaine was a grand lady with many talents. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, crafting, cooking, entertaining, traveling the world, spending time in the outdoors, camping, boating, golfing and spending time with family and friends.

Elaine was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served diligently in every position to which she was called.

She is survived by daughter Tessie Spilsbury (Peter) Mims of Las Vegas, son Darrell Keith Spilsbury of Henderson, Nevada; six grandchildren, Joshua (Amy) Halverson, Melissa Mims, Derrek Spilsbury, Staci (Dustin) Mortimer, Devon Spilsbury, Damon (Aubrey) Spilsbury; three great-grandchildren, Conner, Emma and Danielle.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 1, at 2 p.m. at the Cholla Street Ward Chapel, 303 S. Cholla St., Henderson, Nevada.
• Friends may call Thursday, Jan. 31, from 6-8 p.m. and Friday prior to services from 12:30-1:30 p.m., both at the Cholla Chapel.
• Interment will be Saturday, Feb. 2, at 1 p.m. (Utah time) in the Cedar City Cemetery, 685 N. Main, Cedar City, Utah.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

May 27, 1936 – Jan. 31, 2019

David Glen Blake, 82, a resident of the veterans home in Ivins, Utah, passed away Jan. 31, 2019. David has resided in Littlefield, Arizona, adjacent to Mesquite, Nevada, for the past 14 years. David was the first born child on May 27, 1936, 30 minutes prior to his twin sister Dianne Evelyn Blake Croft to David W. Blake and Evelyn Pearl Brunet in Santa Monica, California.

David grew up in the Hawthorne, Lawndale area of Southern California. He graduated from Leuzinger High school top of his class. He then attended Brigham Young University receiving straight A’s, prior to his enlisting in the Navy in which he served from 1955 to 1959.

After the Navy he pursued a career in the construction business becoming an expert drywall finisher. He traveled many places in the U.S. and foreign lands applying his skills. David spent most of his free time hiking, studying astronomy, photography, portrait painting and was amazing at remembering people’s names. One of his biggest dreams he had was to build a saucer shaped house, on his property in Scenic, Arizona, that would be an observatory.

From the time David was a young man he was always helping people in need. He spent many years as a counselor at Alcoholics Anonymous. David always had a tender heart for people with special needs. He spent many years taking care of his ex-wife until she passed. For the last several years he has spent a lot of time helping others whom he met at the senior center in Mesquite, Nevada. David is remembered for his contagious smile and jovial personality.

David was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother Wesley Allen Blake (Milena). His surviving twin sister Dianne Blake Croft (Garth Croft) resides in St. George, Utah.

The family wishes to thank Dixie Regional Hospital wound clinic and vascular department for their efforts, they tried their best to get David mobile. Also for the care and concern of those that assisted David in the veterans home in Ivins, Utah. Also Zion’s Hospice during David’s last few days.

Funeral services

• A short memorial service will be held at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, for family and friends on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m.
• After that there will be a military graveside service at Tonaquint Cemetery at 3 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

April 2, 1929 – Feb. 2, 2019

Shirley Esplin Hart was born April 2, 1929, at the Ida S. Adams home in Kanab, Utah. She passed away on Feb. 2, 2019 in Cedar City, Utah, at the age of 89. Shirley had been a resident of a care center in Cedar City since July 2015 after falling and breaking her leg while out working in her beautiful yard.

She was the first of eight children born to John Lynn Esplin and Amy Heaton Esplin, who resided in Orderville, Utah. Her mother later wrote that when Shirley was 3 months old, the little family went to spend the summer with the sheep herd on the mountain. In the history Shirley wrote about her own life, she remembered that she and her siblings were as much at home at the sheep herd with their father as they were at home with their mother.

Shirley lived through the great depression but was only aware of it through her school studies – the little town of Orderville was pretty self-sufficient. Shirley was the valedictorian of both her high school and college graduating classes. She was a popular student and was passionate about history and politics. She had an artistic streak as well.

Just after she graduated from high school, Shirley’s father died after falling off a ledge while at the sheep herd. It was a defining moment in their family and changed the dynamics of their life but didn’t end Shirley’s focus on higher education. She attended the Branch Agricultural College in Cedar City. Shirley received her elementary school teaching certificate and began teaching at the little school house in New Castle in the fall of 1951. Shirley grew to love the residents of New Castle and became thoroughly involved in the lives of the New Castle Ward members. She also taught one year in Cedar City.

Shirley was a gifted writer. She helped her husband Charles when he was bishop of the New Castle Ward with his talks. She wrote and directed many roadshows and family reunion programs as well as her own life history and her mother’s. She sent countless personal letters over the years to friends and family. Her gardening skills were legendary in New Castle, as well as her pie and bread-making.

Shirley met Charles Edwin Hart Jr. in New Castle. The Hart family had come to Southern Utah from southern California in 1925 to manage a sheep herd out by Beryl in the Escalante Valley. They married on June 9, 1953, in Orderville with a sealing in the St. George Temple the following year. To their union were born six children. One of their children, Carolyn, died at 4 months of age, November, 1964. Shirley’s husband, Charles, passed away on April 16, 1997, in New Castle. Their daughter Amy returned home to care for Charles and Shirley in 1996 and is still living in the family home in New Castle.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Lucy Esplin Sorensen (DeMoin, dec.), her daughter Carolyn Hart and a granddaughter, Whitney (Hart) Christensen. She is survived by her siblings: Lynn (Juanita) Esplin, DeLoy (Grace) Esplin, Jeanette (DeRay) Hugh, Jerry (Lana Gale) Esplin, Carol Esplin Murphy and Verla Esplin Galloway. She is also survived by her children: Nellie (Jan) Doornbos, Lynn Charles (Kaye Beckstead) Hart, Keenan (Jeannine Judd) Hart, Amy Jayne Hart and David (Michelle Molyneaux) Hart as well as 16 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the many friends and extended family who have visited her and sent cards and letters, especially the past three years while she has been at the care center and for the employees of the care center for their loving attention to Shirley.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held at the New Castle Ward building on Main Street in New Castle, Utah, on Feb. 9 at 1 p.m.
• A viewing will precede the funeral from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Burial will be in the New Castle Cemetery.

Arrangements and memorial tree planting are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 435-986-9100.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Serenity Funeral Home online.

April 2, 1929 – Feb. 2, 2019

Shirley Esplin Hart was born April 2, 1929, at the Ida S. Adams home in Kanab, Utah. She passed away on Feb. 2, 2019, in Cedar City, Utah, at the age of 89. Shirley had been a resident of a care center in Cedar City since July 2015 after falling and breaking her leg while out working in her beautiful yard.

She was the first of eight children born to John Lynn Esplin and Amy Heaton Esplin, who resided in Orderville, Utah. Her mother later wrote that when Shirley was three months old the little family went to spend the summer with the sheep herd on the mountain. In the history Shirley wrote about her own life she remembered that she and her siblings were as much at home at the sheep herd with their father as they were at home with their mother!

Shirley lived through the Great Depression but was only aware of it through her school studies – the little town of Orderville was pretty self-sufficient. Shirley was the valedictorian of both her high school and college graduating classes. She was a popular student, passionate about history and politics. She had an artistic streak as well.

Just after she graduated from high school Shirley’s father died after falling off a ledge while at the sheep herd. It was a defining moment in their family and changed the dynamics of their life but didn’t end Shirley’s focus on higher education. She attended the Branch Agricultural College in Cedar City. Shirley received her elementary school teaching certificate and began teaching at the little schoolhouse in New Castle in the fall of 1951. Shirley grew to love the residents of New Castle and became thoroughly involved in the lives of the New Castle Ward members. She also taught one year in Cedar City.

Shirley was a gifted writer. She helped her husband Charles when he was bishop of the New Castle Ward with his talks. She wrote and directed many roadshows and family reunion programs as well as her own life history and her mother’s. She sent countless personal letters over the years to friends and family. Her gardening skills were legendary in New Castle as well as her pie and bread-making.

Shirley met Charles Edwin Hart Jr. in New Castle. The Hart family had come to Southern Utah from southern California in 1925 to manage a sheep herd out by Beryl in the Escalante Valley. They married on June 9, 1953, in Orderville, Utah, with a sealing in the St. George Temple the following year.

To their union was born six children. One of their children, Carolyn, died at four months of age, November 1964. Shirley’s husband, Charles, passed away on April 16, 1997, in New Castle. Their daughter Amy returned home to care for Charles and Shirley in 1996 and is still living in the family home in New Castle.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Lucy Esplin Sorensen (DeMoin, dec.), her daughter Carolyn Hart and granddaughter Whitney (Hart) Christensen. She is survived by her siblings Lynn (Juanita) Esplin, DeLoy (Grace) Esplin, Jeanette (DeRay) Hugh, Jerry (Lana Gale) Esplin, Carol Esplin Murphy and Verla Esplin Galloway. She is also survived by her children Nellie (Jan) Doornbos, Lynn Charles (Kaye Beckstead) Hart, Keenan (Jeannine Judd) Hart, Amy Jayne Hart and David (Michelle Molyneaux) Hart as well as 16 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held at the New Castle Ward building on Main Street in New Castle on Feb. 9 at 1 p.m.
• A viewing will precede the funeral from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Burial will be in the New Castle Cemetery.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the many friends and extended family who have visited her and sent cards and letters, especially the past three years while she has been at the care center and for the employees of the care center for their loving attention to Shirley.

Arrangements and memorial tree planting are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 435-986-9100.

Family and friends are invited to share tributes at Serenity Funeral Home online.

Dec. 25, 1925 – Feb. 3, 2019

Charlene Sherry Deuel passed from this life on Feb. 3, 2019, at the age of 93 due to complications from a fall. She was born on Dec. 25, 1925, in Rollins, Tennessee, to Charles and Georgia Sloan Boles. She married E. Kay Deuel in July 1948 in Reno, Nevada, and later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple.

Sherry was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and together with her husband Kay served several LDS missions.

Sherry was preceded in death by her husband Kay and two grandsons; she is survived by three children: Daryl of Malad, Idaho, Dave (Nyleen) of Brookside, Utah, Kim (Allie) of Kingman, Arizona; three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Spring Gardens Assisted Living Center their wonder attention to Sherry over the last few years.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, at 11 a.m., with a visitation at 10 a.m., at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.
• Interment will be in the St. George City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Dec. 28, 1931 – Feb. 4, 2019

William J. “Bill” Johnson was happily reunited with loved ones on the other side of the veil on Feb. 4, 2019. Bill was born in Panguitch, Utah, Dec. 28, 1931, as the fourth of six children. He was married for 60 years to his wife Raelynn.

Bill graduated from Panguitch High School where he excelled in sports and then was drafted into the Army. Bill was sent to Korea and served for two years as a pole lineman building the communication between troops. For his service he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, among other commendations.

Bill learned to work hard early with many chores ranging from herding cows, making soap with his mother and doing a paper route. This hard-working spirit coupled with his sense of humor made him exceptional in his career as an electro-maintenance mechanic and supervisor for the Federal Aviation Administration.

In 1958 while working in Bryce Canyon, he won the heart of Raelynn LeFevre and they were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, and later sealed in the St. George Temple. Bill’s work took them many places to raise their family, Curt and Joni. While in Worland, Wyoming, their son William Kent was born and passed away as an infant. The family enjoyed their time in Worland, but Bill always knew he would have to bring Raelynn back to Utah, so upon retiring they settled in the small town of Paragonah.

In retirement Bill most enjoyed his time camping with family and his dogs. He had a great talent for fine woodworking and mechanics. While in Paragonah, Bill continued serving others on multiple boards and as a “handyman.” Bill’s capacity to tell a story entertained all his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Raelynn; son Curt (Melody); daughter Joni (Phil); grandson Scotty Johnson; granddaughter Kasiah Brinkerhoff; along with many friends. He was preceded in death by his entire birth family; his son William Kent; and grandsons Woody and Phillip Kent Brinkerhoff.

Funeral services

• A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 11 a.m. at the Paragonah LDS cultural hall.
• Interment with military honors will be held in Panguitch, Utah, at a later date.

Arrangements and memorial tree planting are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 435-986-9100.

Family and friends are invited to share tributes at Serenity Funeral Home online.

Feb. 5, 1934 – Feb. 3, 2019

John Edward Carman passed away on Feb. 3, 2019, just two days short of his 85th birthday. He was born on Feb. 5, 1934, in Coalville, Utah. He was the youngest of four children born to John B. Carman and Lois Rees Carman. At the age of 5, the family moved to Echo, Utah, where they bought land and started a dairy farm which they maintained until 1967.

He graduated from North Summit High School in 1952. He joined the United States Air Force and served from Feb. 26, 1953, to Feb. 25, 1957. John was a Korean War veteran. Between the Air Force and college John worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and various construction jobs driving heavy equipment. While working and going to Weber College, where he played football, he met his lifelong sweetheart Brenda Lee Wessler. They were married on Oct. 12, 1962, in Ogden, Utah, where they resided until his college graduation in 1965.

After the birth of their first two children they moved to Washington, Utah, on Jan. 1, 1967, where John accepted a position as associate professor of the auto mechanics program. In 1969 their third child was born. The family later moved to Bloomington Hills, Utah. He taught for 32 years, retiring in 1999, but coming back to adjunct teach one more year.

John loved hunting, which he did with his dog/companion Rusty. He went pheasant hunting to Dickinson, North Dakota. He also loved fishing and was able to go on trips to Mexico and Nassau to deep sea fish. He also loved golfing in fair weather. John was a life member of both the Elks and Eagles and was a member of the NRA. He was a true patriot of his country.

John was quick-witted and could come up with a comeback without hesitation. No matter what you were talking about he always had a story to tell about his many life experiences. It was always said that he had a rough exterior but was a marshmallow inside. John was known for his handlebar mustache. One college president did not approve of mustaches, so John grew him one. Wherever he went someone always had a good comment to say regarding his mustache.

After being diagnosed with celiac disease, the foods he missed the most were his wife’s homemade oatmeal raisin cookies and homemade bread. He very much disliked his new cardboard bread.

John is survived by his wife Brenda and his four children, Danna Carman, St. George Utah; Mitzi Robinson (Shirl), Washington, Utah; Ginger West (John) St. George, Utah; and Lori Ann Carman from prior marriage. He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Kyle Robinson, John Bearden, Cameron Robinson, Sean Robinson, Jacqui West and Cambria West.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother David who died at birth, and his two sisters, Mary Allison and Phoebe Burroughs. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law George C Wessler Jr. and mother-in-law Althea Little Wessler.

Per John’s request there will be no funeral services or viewing. He chose to donate his body to the University of Utah medical school donor program. There will be a gathering of family and friends at a later date.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Abinash Roy and his staff Michelle and Rane; Dr. Lynn Nimer; Dr. Tyler Haberle and all of the staff in the ICU at Dixie Regional Medical Center (IHC) for their loving care and compassion given to John.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Sept. 21, 1921 – Dec. 18, 2018

Our dear friend and fellow saint, Maxine Hewitt, was gathered to our Lord on Dec. 18, 2018. She was a dear child of God and we miss her deeply.

In her time, Maxine was a fierce prayer warrior and a gracious ambassador of the Holy Spirit.

She and her husband Ron had many friends in the Cedar City area. Among her great pleasures was to visit weekly with all her friends at the senior center lunches and the Bella Terra Praise Services.

Please join us in a service to honor and celebrate her time among us. The Trinity Lutheran Church members invite the community to attend a service at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 10, at Trinity Lutheran. A reception will follow. The church is located at 410 E. 1935 North, across from Fiddlers Elementary School. If you have questions, call 435-586-7103.

April 13, 1934 – Feb. 5, 2019

Nelda Ann Brooks, 84, died Feb. 5, 2019, in St. George, Utah. She was born April 13, 1934, to DeVoyal and Noma Harward. 

On May 27, 1952, she married her sweetheart, William Bruce Brooks, in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they raised seven children and for Nelda, her family was everything.  She spent her last years as a widow focused on her ever-growing family and doing all she could for them – including helping to support the missionaries, newborns and all in between.

Nelda was a fervent and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nelda and Bruce served as missionaries in the St. George Temple Visitors’ Center and Historical Sites Mission and were ordinance workers in the St. George Temple for many years. Nelda retired as an aide from Hillsdale Elementary School in Granger, Utah, and served her community and church in many capacities, including many years as a den mother for the Boy Scouts of America.   

Nelda was preceded in death by her parents, husband and three infant grandsons. She is survived by her children Susan (John) Nelson, Randy (Ana) Brooks, Stephen (Lori) Brooks, Larry (Nolene) Brooks, David (Carolyn) Brooks, Maree (Ronald) Pope, Matthew (Cynthia) Brooks and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Elvin Harward, sister-in-law Janet Allen, brother-in-law Russel Brooks and many nieces and nephews.  

Funeral services

• A visitation will be held in St. George, Utah, Thursday, Feb. 7, from 5-7 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd.
• Funeral services will be held in Taylorsville, Utah, at the McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S. Redwood Road, Monday, Feb. 11, at 11 a.m.
• A visitation will be held prior to services from 10-10:45 a.m. at the funeral home.
• Interment will be at Redwood Memorial Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Nov. 4, 1929 – Feb. 9, 2019

Shirley Lauver Anderson, 89, passed away Feb. 9, 2019. She grew up in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the daughter of Merle and Annie Lauver.

She attended Brigham Young University, where she studied theater arts and was also the 1947 Banyan Queen. While attending BYU she met a dashing, young former Army Air Corps Pilot, Arthur “Art” Burton Anderson, whom she married on Aug. 6, 1948.

With the outbreak of the Korean War, Art was recalled into the United States Air Force and Shirley became a military wife for the next 20-plus years. At each new move and while raising a family, Shirley was routinely engaged in meaningful community service and volunteerism.

In the mid 1950s, she served for three years as a mental health volunteer at the Utah State Mental Hospital in Provo, Utah. She was the first female volunteer to work in the challenging environs of the violent men’s ward.

She coordinated nursing home visits and other compassionate service efforts as a member of the leadership of the Officers Wives Club at Chanute AFB, Illinois, and while stationed in Europe served in many volunteer capacities and also in support of Art as he served as Branch President of the American LDS Branch in Wiesbaden, Germany.

Years later in Utah, Shirley was a regular volunteer at the Salt Lake County Juvenile Detention Center, and following the move to St. George, served as a victims advocate for Washington County, a member of the St. George City Planning Commission and a volunteer at the Miracle Manor Retirement home.

Shirley had a love of all animals whether they had scales, fur or feathers and she delighted in her volunteer work at the St. George Animal Shelter. At the time of her death, she was an active member of the Assistance League of Southern Utah.

Being a Wyoming girl, Shirley loved to shoot guns, was a crack shot and carried a valid conceal/carry permit. Even recently, she enjoyed slipping away on the weekends with her son, Mike, to the desert to shoot targets.

From her childhood, she was an avid fisherman. She and Art loved trailer camping, boating and traveling. Among her greatest loves were music and theater with acting roles in little theater while in Maryland in Blithe Spirit and Li’l Abner. She served as a casting director’s assistant for several feature films produced in Southern Utah in the 1980s.

She was also an avid writer, producer and energetic director of MIA Roadshows as well as a tireless church chorister – frequently with her daughter, Kris, at the piano over the many years of such service. Her favorite holiday, often to the chagrin and sometimes astonishment of her children and their friends was Halloween. Enough said.

Shirley and Art enjoyed their activity in the LDS church, which included a mission to Australia and Oregon. Throughout her life, writing to missionaries was like a sport to Shirley. She would type letters (often on toilet paper or some other unexpected medium) and fill envelopes with clippings, comics and local stories to brighten a young missionary’s day.

Shirley’s greatest treasure was her family, which included five children: sons Timothy B.  (Kathryn) and Michael B. (Kelly); daughters Kris (LuWayne), Kelly of St. George, Utah, and Heidi (Jerry) Hansen of Carlsbad, California; 21 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, and her husband, Art. She was predeceased by Viva Kuechle of Anchorage, Alaska, her biological mother, with whom she connected later in life and enjoyed a wonderful relationship for several years.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 16, at 11 a.m. at the Desert Hills Ward Chapel, 675 East Desert Hills Drive, St. George, Utah.
• Visitation will be held Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., and on Saturday, prior to services, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Shirley suggests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Assistance League of Southern Utah.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

May 13, 1924 – Feb. 5, 2019

Ruth Joan Wildrick, 94, passed away Feb. 5, 2019. She was born May 13, 1924, in Kewanee, Illinois, to Estella Lena Richardson and Walter Beckam Stroud.

She graduated from high school during WWII and went to work as a stenographer in the Pentagon. While visiting her brother who was a cadet at the United States Military Academy, she met her future husband, Richard Minter Wildrick. They were married in the Cadet Chapel at West Point the day after Richard graduated on June 4, 1946.

For the next 30 years, she dutifully and without complaint followed him wherever the Army permitted her to do so. She lived with her family at different times, a total of 10 years in Germany, two years in Belgium and the remaining years in eight different states – many of them twice and some three times.

Ruth was a devout Christian and participated in the activities of the Army’s many post chapels. She was also active in many of the Army wives’ clubs.

Shortly after her husband’s retirement in 1976, she and her husband joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in subsequent years she served a mission in St. George extracting names of the dead; temple missions in Switzerland and Australia; as an assistant matron in the Washington, D.C. Temple; and five years in the Denver Temple as an ordinance worker.

Ruth is survived by her husband Richard; son Craig Wildrick; daughter Leslie Lenel; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services

• Funeral service will be held Saturday, Feb. 16, at 11 a.m. at the SunRiver 1^st Branch Chapel, 4461 S. Country Club Drive, St. George, Utah.
• A visitation will be held prior to service from 10-10:45 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will be in Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Aug. 23, 1913 – Feb. 8, 2019

On Feb. 8, 2019, at 105 years young, Luana Packer Halversen passed from the limitations of this life into the freedoms of the next. There to welcome her were her husband A. Reed Halversen, who passed away Feb. 27, 1984, and her daughter Nita (Neal) Rosenbaum, who passed away Sept. 26, 1987. Her parents, James Manuel Packer and Lonetta Johnson Packer, were also there to welcome her with open arms.

Aug. 23, 1913, was the day that Luana came to earth to bless the lives of all those around her. A little community north of Franklin, Idaho, called Nashville, was her birthplace. She was the fifth of seven children.

Luana was valedictorian of her graduating class at Franklin High School, the result of her hard work and her love of learning. She graduated from Stevens-Henager Business College and worked for the Ogden City School District as a secretary.

Luana met Reed in her Franklin ward and they were married on June 1, 1932. They had five children. Because Reed worked for the California Packing Corporation (Del Monte), they were transferred several times. They lived in Franklin, Idaho, and in Utah they lived in Smithfield, Spanish Fork Ogden, and Farmington. Luana later moved to North Ogden, Brigham City and St. George.

Luana was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout her life. She had a strong testimony of the gospel, missionary work, temple work and her savior, Jesus Christ. She bore her testimony through word and deed.

In 1944, Reed and Luana, along with their three young children and one infant, answered the prophet’s call and braved a five-week sea voyage in war-torn waters to reopen the New Zealand Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Luana’s primary responsibility was to oversee all the women’s organizations in the mission. Luana touched the lives of those she served, with many descendants of missionaries and islanders continuing the relationships forged in New Zealand.

In 1971, Reed and Luana were called to serve as the first President and Matron of the Ogden Utah Temple. They served until 1976.

Two and a half months after Reed passed away, Luana was called to serve a mission in the Washington D.C. Temple. Shortly after she returned from her mission, she was asked to be an assistant matron in the Ogden Utah Temple.

In between all her other callings, she was a choir director. She loved music, and she loved leading a choir. One could say that was her favorite calling, but the fact is every calling was her favorite.

Her greatest desires were to please her heavenly Father and set an inspirational example for everyone around her, especially her posterity. She had five children, 23 grandchildren, 82 great-grandchildren, 138 great-great grandchildren, and 1 great-great-great-granddaughter, for a total of 250. Including all 62 spouses, the grand total is 312.

For the past two and a half years, Luana has lived in Spring Gardens Senior Living in St. George, Utah. We would like to thank the staff there for their dedicated care. There she made many friends, and was known for her smile and her positive attitude. Her motto was, “I can handle it!” Many of her friends adopted that motto.

As a family, we are grateful to all her friends and family whose kindnesses were indelibly engraved in her heart. She loved you all. She loved everywhere she lived, every church assignment she had and everyone with whom she came in contact.

Luana is survived by four children, one son-in-law: Stan of Layton, Utah; Paul (Jackie) of Spokane, Washington; David (Lana) of St. George, Utah; Anne (Johnny) Hansen of Pleasant View, Utah; and Neal (Martha) Rosenbaum of Spanish Fork, Utah, and her large posterity. She was the last surviving child of Manuel and Lonetta Packer.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m., with a visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel, 1006 E. 200 South, Spanish Fork, Utah.
• Luana will be laid to rest next to Reed in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Feb. 10, 2019

Edward William Andrews, 78, of St. George, Utah, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Feb. 10, 2019. He was born in Coronado, California, the son of Ruth Kennedy.

Ed was raised in Hawthorne, California, where he attended school until he found the love of his life Darnell, and married her in June 1958. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Los Angeles Temple in December 1966.

The young couple moved to Hawaii in 1958 after Ed enlisted in the United States Navy; following honorable discharge in 1962 they moved back to Southern California for 10 years before moving to Grand Junction, Colorado, where they resided, until moving to St. George, Utah, in 2013.

Ed was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many church callings throughout his life including Elders Quorum President, Executive Secretary, Sunday School President and a variety of callings. Ed never met a stranger, enjoyed talking to everyone and loved interacting with the youth especially coaching young men’s basketball.

Ed was employed in the mortgage banking industry for 42 years holding several executive positions for many financial institutions. He traveled extensively throughout his life, visiting much of the Continental United States, including worldwide trips to Europe, Mexico, Asia and Hawaii. He enjoyed going to the movies with his beloved Darnell and was the family movie critic. He loved reading, studying history, miscellaneous trivia, music of all kinds and the theater arts, especially musicals.

He was an accomplished athlete and excelled at most sports including tennis, racquetball, pickleball, softball and basketball. He won several gold medals in the Huntsman Senior Games and never missed an opportunity to watch a major sporting event including a trip to the U.S. Open tennis tournament. His favorite teams were the Denver Broncos, New York Yankees, Boston Celtics and USC Trojans. His favorite team of all was his family and he cheered the loudest for all his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ed is survived by wife, Darnell Andrews; daughter: Janell and Bill Ogle, Grand Junction, Colorado; three sons: Scott and Debra Andrews, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Craig and Leslie Andrews, Ivins, Utah, Jeff and Xela Andrews, Keller, Texas; two sisters: Donna Torino, Jacksonville, Florida, Barbara Day, Warren, Oregon; brother, Tony Andrews, Chino, California; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Kennedy; sister, Connie Pittman and a grandson, Brett Cox.

In lieu of flowers please brighten someone’s day, be happy no matter your circumstances, serve someone, spend valuable time with a little one or a grandchild, hit a golf ball, tennis ball or pickleball in Ed’s honor!

Funeral services

• Funeral service will be held Friday, Feb. 15, at 11 a.m. at the Sunset Stake Center, 82 N. Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Thursday, Feb. 14, from 6-7 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah, and prior to service from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the stake center.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Nov. 16, 1977 – Feb. 7, 2019

Our husband, father, son, brother and friend Bradley Dee Stapley, 41, of Washington, Utah, tragically lost his life on Feb. 7, 2019, when he was overcome by an avalanche in the Beaver mountains of Central Utah after a fun afternoon of snowmobiling with some friends.

Brad was born in St. George, Utah, on Nov. 16, 1977, to Evan and Faith Stapley. He graduated from Pine View High School in 1996. He served a two-year LDS mission in Omaha, Nebraska.

After his mission, he attended Dixie College where he met his sweetheart, Jana Graham. After a short and sweet courtship, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mount Timpanogos LDS temple in American Fork on June 16, 2000.

He completed his prerequisites at Dixie College and attended Nevada College of Pharmacy in Henderson, Nevada. He graduated pharmacy school with a doctorate of pharmacy in the spring of 2004.

Brad and Jana moved back to St. George in the end of 2004 and he joined his dad as a pharmacist at the then Bateman Pharmacy. A few months later, the pharmacy was renamed to Stapley Pharmacy. By 2014, Brad and Evan had expanded their family of pharmacies by adding Stapley Pharmacy at Dino Crossing and the additional C3 closed door pharmacy.

In June 2015, Brad and Jana purchased the business from his mother and father, Evan and Faith Stapley, where he has since served as pharmacist, CEO and president. He had a vision to draw people in with his personal care and genuine concern for the patients and customers who would patronize the stores. By the end of 2015, he expanded one more additional location in the Carter’s Market, Enterprise, Utah.

Brad loved traveling with his family, frequently attending the Cubs spring training baseball in Phoenix.  He loved golfing, the Chicago Cubs, the Utah Utes, the mountains, snowmobiling and especially his wife and six daughters. He was a prominent business leader, philanthropist, visionary, teacher and genuine friend.

Brad is survived by his wife Jana, daughters Brinly, Brooklin, Madi, Skylar, Kapree and Darbi, all of Washington, Utah; parents Evan and Faith Stapley of Washington; siblings Shannon (Jared) Allen of Tremonton, Devan (Shanell) Stapley of St. George, Aaron (Lisa) Stapley of St. George, Chantel (Jake) Fotheringham of Midway.

Brad, I know you are always here for me and the girls. I can’t help but feel your presence. My heart is so broken right now, but I know that I will mend over time. I will always be thinking of you. I love you. I know we will be together again someday. Love you forever and always. – Me

Funeral services

• Visitations will be held on Friday, Feb. 15, from 6-8 p.m., and on Saturday, Feb. 16, from 9-10:30 a.m., prior to the funeral service. Both visitations will be held at the Washington East Stake Center, 1835 S. Washington Fields Road in Washington, Utah.
• Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 16, at 11 a.m. after the visitation at 1835 S. Washington Fields Road in Washington, Utah.

Brad had a love for new socks and in honor of his memory and service to the community, if you feel the desire, we are asking that you bring some new socks and donate them with us to those who are in need. Drop off areas will be located at each of the pharmacies throughout the week and at the services on Friday and Saturday.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454.

For condolences, full obituary and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

May 28, 1968 – Feb. 11, 2019

Susan Topham Hafen, age 50, passed away on Feb. 11, 2019, at her home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on May 28, 1968, in Monticello, Utah, to Kenneth Marlo and Opal Bauer Topham. She married Kraig Darien Hafen on July 26, 1991, in the Manti, Utah Temple.  

Susan lived in Monticello and Bountiful, Utah, before her family settled in Delta, Utah, when she was 5 years old. Not long after, she was asked to be the Delta Rabbit mascot because of her happy, bubbly personality. Once she reached high school, she was a member of the Tri-Dels dance team and was a cheerleader her senior year. She graduated in 1986 from Delta High School.

Susan was crowned Miss Millard in 1987. She went on to compete in the Miss Utah Pageant where she was known for losing her shoe during the kick line of the opening dance number.     

Susan attended SUSC (now SUU) in Cedar City, Utah, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1990. She was also a member of the cheer team in college. After graduating, Susan taught fifth grade at Sunset Elementary in Davis County, Utah.

In December 1990, Susan met the love of her life, Kraig, on a blind date. They never seemed to be apart after that. Kraig said he could have asked her to marry him that night.

After their marriage, they made Mesquite, Nevada, their home. She continued teaching at Virgin Valley Elementary School, where she taught third grade, until the birth of her daughter Nikole. She then made the decision to stay at home raising her three children, Nikole, Dillon and Shalee. After Dillon’s diagnosis of autism, Kraig and Susan’s love for one another only grew stronger as they faced the challenges ahead.

She was active in her children’s education and did all she could to support the school activities they participated in. These also included fundraisers, decorating floats and team dinners. Being a wife and mother was her greatest achievement.

Susan was an excellent homemaker; her house was always spotless and she was a wonderful cook. She always made sure everyone who entered her home always felt welcomed and loved. Susan always loved having family around, especially her nieces and nephews. She had a close bond with all of them. She was always serving those around her. She continued putting others before herself even until the day she died.

Susan was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and fulfilled various callings including Relief Society President, Young Women’s President, and Primary President. Her commitment and her testimony of our savior Jesus Christ never wavered and carried her through her battle with cancer.

Susan is survived by her loving husband Kraig Darien Hafen of Mesquite, Nevada; children Nikole (David) Cardon, (Mesquite, Nevada), Dillon Kraig Hafen (Mesquite, Nevada), and Shalee (fiancé, Baxter Baker) (St. George, Utah); granddaughter Makynlee Sue Cardon whom she adored (Mesquite, Nevada); father Kenneth Marlo Topham (Delta, Utah); siblings Tammy Topham (Cedar City, Utah), Lisa (Joey) Skinner (Morgan, Utah), Kendall (Michelle) Topham (Stansbury Park, Utah), Greg (Michelle) Topham (Spanish Fork, Utah), Todd (Lynn) Topham (Alpine, Utah), and Kurtis (Stacia) Topham (Delta, Utah); Dawn Hafen (Mesquite, Nevada), Nelson (Laurel) Hafen (St. George, Utah), Derek Hafen (Mesquite, Nevada), Merlin (Victoria) Hafen (Mesquite, Nevada) and Tilman (Jennifer) Hafen (Mesquite, Nevada) and many nieces and nephews. Susan was preceded in death by her mother Opal Bauer Topham.

A special thanks to Dr. Ryan E. Wilcox, nurses and staff at the IHC Cancer Center in St. George, Utah, for all the love, support and wonderful care they gave to Susan. Also, thanks to Mesa View Hospice for the kindness and care given to Susan. 

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 16, at 11 a.m. local time at the Mesquite Nevada Stake Center, 100 North Arrowhead Lane, Mesquite, Nevada.
• A viewing will be held Friday, Feb. 15, from 6-8 p.m. local time at the Mesquite Nevada Stake Center and from 9-10:30 a.m. on Saturday prior to the funeral.
• Interment will be at the Mesquite Cemetery under the direction of Virgin Valley Mortuary.

June 24, 1940 – Feb. 11, 2019

Devoted father and husband Merlin Terry Ahlquist, 78, passed away Feb. 11, 2019, at his care facility, BeeHive Homes in St. George, Utah, peacefully with family by his side.

Terry was born June 24, 1940, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Merlin and Ann Ahlquist. As a child he grew up in Garfield and loved to ride bikes, climb the hills behind his home and play on the old Kennecott copper mine train tracks.

Terry graduated from Granite High School and played on the basketball team during his high school years as point guard. After graduating high school Terry served a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in southern California.

Returning from his mission Terry continued his education at the University of Utah, getting his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, where he eventually started his career working for Unisys for 20 years and met the love of his life, his wife Concha Marie Bosshardt.

Terry moved on in his career working for Novell and then finishing his career as an educator teaching at East High School, the Utah Department of Corrections in Gunnison and lastly at Snow College South where he then retired.

Terry started his life in the Salt Lake area and gradually moved farther south as he got older, first moving to Redmond, Utah, then retiring down in St. George, Utah. Terry was very athletic and loved all sports especially golf, basketball, bowling, racquetball and tennis. He also loved the outdoors and grew up hunting with his father and also loved riding four-wheelers on the beautiful trails of Utah.

Terry is survived by his wife Concha Marie Bosshardt and his five children Terena Devashrayee, Bryce Payne, Mindy Pratt, Niki Sampson, Cody Ahlquist; grandchildren; sisters Merann Hegemann and Pam Jensen; and many many friends.

He was preceded in death by his mom and dad Ann and Merlin Ahlquist and his son M Terry Jr. Ahlquist.

Our family would like to give a special thanks to the wonderful nurses, CNAs and staff at BeeHive Homes and to all the family members who provided invaluable care to Dad toward the end of his life.

Funeral services

• Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at Santa Clara 1st Ward, 3040 Santa Clara Drive.

Family and friends are invited to share tributes at Serenity Funeral Home online. Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home, 435-986-2085.

Sept. 3, 1931 – Feb. 10, 2019

Wesley D. Webb, 87, of St. George, Utah, was ushered into heaven on Feb. 10, 2019. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sept. 3, 1931, to Thyra E. and Athol M. Webb. He married Stephanie Cisar in 1997.

Wes graduated from Granite High School in 1949. In 1954 he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the College of Business, University of Utah. He was a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma honorary business fraternity. Upon graduation, Wes began his professional career as an accountant with Siegel Financial in Salt Lake City retiring as their chief financial officer.

At the age of 14, his father Ott taught him to fly, giving birth to his lifelong love affair with airplanes. He loved flying and spent weekends traveling to Mena, Arkansas, procuring aircraft for his airplane business. While he owned numerous aircraft, his favorite was a Staggerwing Beech. He served his country as a loyal member of the Air National Guard (Reno, Nevada) and, alongside his father, as a member of the Civil Air Patrol (Utah).

Life provided numerous opportunities for Wes to become an entrepreneur and he eagerly took advantage of it. Among his diverse business adventures he began purchasing drive-in movie theaters and at one time was the largest single owner/operator in the United States.

Wes was an avid hunter, bagging numerous trophy deer and elk in the mountains of his beloved Utah. At every opportunity he would regale you with his conquests.

Wes enjoyed traveling, especially cruising, loved West Highland White Terriers, crossword puzzles, cigars and Drambuie. A complete listing of his pursuits would fill an entire newspaper. Suffice it to say he lived a life most of us only dream of living.

He is survived by his wife Stephanie; his children Kris (Jim) Neal, and Clark (Kathleen) Webb; grandchildren Stefan, Leah and Dylan; great-grandson Graysen; his loving sister Elaine (John) Mitchell; stepsons C.J. Cisar, and Joshua Cisar. He was preceded in death by his daughter Diana Webb Jergensen.

A celebration of his life will be held this Saturday in St. George, Utah. Per his wishes, Wes was cremated and his ashes spread where he loved to be – the ocean.

Family and friends are invited to share tributes at Serenity Funeral Home online. Arrangements and memorial tree planting by the Cremation Center of Southern Utah, 435-986-2085.